In observation of National Science Fiction Day, the Octavia Fellin Public Library is hosting its own Sci-Fi Fest from Jan. 2 – 6.

Events include a screening of The Dark Tower, a special guest appearance from science fiction author Steven Gould, and a lock-in game called the “Sci-Fi Escape Room.” There will also be a sci-fi challenge throughout the week where participants will have the chance to win prizes.

“January 2 is Science Fiction Day and we recognize the sci-fi movement throughout the nation,” Moe said. “Markos is a huge fan of science fiction and he invited Steven Gould, author of Jumper, to come out to Gallup.”

Gould will be at the library 6 pm on Jan. 4. Jumper, released in 1992, was adapted into film in 2008, starring Hayden Christensen.

Chavez contacted Gould and shared information on the library’s decision to host a festival in honor of National Science Fiction Day.

“I asked Steven Gould if he would be willing to come and speak to our library about science fiction, especially since he’s had experience having some of his work produced in Hollywood and he was more than willing,” Chavez said.

Chavez is a “Trekkie,” and a fan of novels by William Shatner. His other favorite science fiction writers include H.G. Wells and Arthur C. Clarke, and anything Star Wars related.

The Sci-Fi Fest activities at the library are free to the public–and some of them will be truly out of the ordinary.

“We have a very special event on Friday, it’s the Sci-Fi Escape Room. People are welcome to participate throughout the day and we’ll have different sessions. You can participate as a team or individually. It’s a zombie theme,” he said.

The library is also hosting a cultural exchange for the next four months, featuring water for the month of January.

Moe encouraged Gallup residents to continue their visits to the library to experience the cultural exchange, even after the excitement of Sci-Fi Fest quiets down.

“In December, we featured a cultural exchange for food. Now, the focus is the four elements and we are starting with water. Come in and see what we have on the history of water in this area, water security and the importance of water in life,” Moe said.

If you’re planning your visit, know that Mondays are the busiest day of the week at the library. Monday through Thursday, the library is open from 9 am – 8 pm. On Friday and Saturday, the hours are 9 am – 6 pm.